Former Google exec thinks Android is “a few years behind” Apple in Photography

Social media users caught wind of a Facebook post by former Google executive Vic Gundotra, who praised the iPhone 7’s “Portrait mode”, while also dissing Android photography big time. Replying to some comments, he was quoted as saying “would never use an Android phone for photos!” He then blamed the very nature of Android, being open source, for coming up short in the photography department.

“Here is the problem: It’s Android. Android is an open source (mostly) operating system that has to be neutral to all parties. This sounds good until you get into the details. Ever wonder why a Samsung phone has a confused and bewildering array of photo options? Should I use the Samsung Camera? Or the Android Camera? Samsung gallery or Google Photos? “

“It’s because when Samsung innovates with the underlying hardware (like a better camera) they have to convince Google to allow that innovation to be surfaced to other applications via the appropriate API. That can take YEARS.”

In the following statement, it’s as if he is saying Android relies too much on software manipulation.

“Also the greatest innovation isn’t even happening at the hardware level – it’s happening at the computational photography level. (Google was crushing this 5 years ago – they had had “auto awesome” that used AI techniques to automatically remove wrinkles, whiten teeth, add vignetting, etc… but recently Google has fallen back).”

He then praised Apple, who is in full control of their hardware and software implementations.

“Apple doesn’t have all these constraints. They innovate in the underlying hardware, and just simply update the software with their latest innovations (like portrait mode) and ship it. “

He then ended the note by saying Android is years behind Apple in terms of photography.

“Bottom line: If you truly care about great photography, you own an iPhone. If you don’t mind being a few years behind, buy an Android.”

What can you say Android users? Is he correct in his proclamation that Apple owns Android in terms of Photography? sound off in the comment section below.